Puzzle and puzzle game



April 21, 1942. M. l. wluuAMsoN l PUZZLE AND PUZZLE GAMEv Filed sept] 7, 1939 5 sheets-sheet 1 m h s mi mw n mm, N EW WL .mY/ MB H ft-"iwil ZIO April 2l, 1942. M. l. WILLIAMSON 2,280,509

PUZZLEAND PUZZLE GAME Filed sept. 7, 1959 5 sheets-sneer 2 INVENTOR Marsha l. Williamson BY l ,f YQ

H151 i RNEY April 2l, 1.942.

.M. WILLIAMSON l PUzzLEAND PUZZLE GAME 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 Filed sep'.v 7, 1939 7. 2 Tll lNvl-:NTQB Mors 1| I WlHnomson Has A -INEY Patented Apr. 21, 1942 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE PUZZLE AND PUZZLE GAME Marshall I. Williamson, New York, N. Y.

Application September 7, 1939, Serial No. 293,827

6 Claims.

This invention relates to puzzles and to puzzle games and particularly to those types of puzzles and puzzle games which have an artistic and educational appeal as well as an intellectual challenge.

The primary object of the invention is to provide a puzzle that will stimulate interestI without setting up a well nig-h impossible or overly fatiguing task in its solution, which is capable of presentation in a great variety of forms and particular instances, and one which may be employed very advantageously' for educational purposes.

In all of its forms, the puzzle has, as its ultimate aim, the creation of a pictorial or other desired type of graphic representation. The term creating as here used, means the producing of something by a person who has no prior knowledge of the form thereof, even though the form of' that something is, as a fact, predetermined. l

The component elements of the puzzle include several markings arranged in a predetermined manner relative to one another, on a reference eld, to form an incomplete graphic representation, and several individual markings and/or individual groups of markings which indicate and/or provide what must be used to t into the arrangement expressed by the iirst mentioned several markings, to complete the incomplete graphic representation. The puzzle is solved, and thereby, the pictorial or other desired tending between and through certain 'of the dots of which, are marked diagonal lines in predetermined relation to one another. The diagonal lines collectively delineate an incomplete graphic representation. -Marked on the dotted eld at locations removed from the incomplete graphic v representation are individual horizontal lines and individual vertical lines, each line having a length measured in dots, and a deiinite predetermined ultimate placement with respect to the diagonal lines of the incomplete graphic representation. The puzzle is solved, and the complete graphic representation formed, by selectively determining'the correct location of, and by drawing in, individual horizontal, and individual vertical, lines which are in accordance with those marked at a removed location on the reference eld, additive to the incomplete graphic representation.

The'puzzle may, however, comprise a set of individual transparent cards, on one of which ls marked an incomplete graphic representation overlying'a reference field to which it bears a special relationship, and on the remainder of which are marked individual graphic elements or individual groups of graphic elements, respectively, all of which bear special relationships to the reference field. The puzzle, in this embodigraphic representation', is created, by the selective addition of individual elements, and/or individual groups of elements, to an incomplete graphic representation, in proper relationship thereto, which is in accordance with the arrangement expressed by the rst several markings.

The forms in which the generic idea of the puzzle may be embodied are numerous and d1- verse. Specific examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings, and the following detailed description. While such specic forms are here set forth and explained for the purpose of illustrating what might be done in furtherance of the generic idea, it is realized that other specific forms will occur to others, by reason of the teaching here set forth. Consequently, 1t is not intended that the practical exempliication of the invention be limited to such specific forms, nor that theA protection afforded hereby be so limited. y

A very eiective form of the puzzle 1s provided by a dotted reference eld'upon which, and exment, is solved, and the completed graphic representation formed, by superimposing the respective transparent cards on one another in proper relationship so that the individual graphic elements and/or individual groups of graphic elements are properly disposed to transvisually complete the incomplete graphic representation.

Again, the puzzle may be in the form of a playing board marked with areference field, and of playing pieces which all bear special relationships to the reference eld, and are all adapted for placement on the playing board. Several of 'the individual playing pieces are placed on the board in accordance with the showing loi an incomplete graphic representation on an accompanying chart. The remainder of the individual playing pieces are selectively placed on the playing board in proper relation to the originally placed individual playing pieces, whereby the incomplete graphic representation is completed.

Variations of the above described forms as well as further objects and features of the invention are set forth in the'following detailed description.

In the drawings:

Fig. 1 represents a top plan view of a sheet inscribed with a dotted eld, through dots of which is drawn an incomplete graphic representation, together with several individual graphic elements for selective addition to the incomplete graphic representation;

Fig. 2 is a view corresponding to that of Fig. 1. but representing the sheet after the individual graphic elements have been selectively added to the incomplete graphic representation, and a pictorial representation completed;

Fig. 3 represents a fragmentary portion of an inscribed sheet similar to that of Fig. 1, but wherein the incomplete graphic representation is outlined by certain of the dots which have been enlarged.

Fig. 4 represents a fragmentary portion of a sheet on which are inscribed only the dots which outline the incomplete graphic representation;

Fig. 5 represents a top plan view of a card of transparent material upon which is inscribed an incomplete graphic representation;

Fig. 6 represents top plan views of a series of individual transparent cards similar to the card of Fig. 5, but each having inscribed thereon an individual graphic element for selective addition and placement relative to the incomplete graphic representation of Fig. 5;

Fig. 7 represents a top plan view of the transparent cards of Figs. 5 and 6 superimposed in such manner that the individual graphic elements are properly placed to complete the incomplete graphic representation;

Fig. 8 represents an elevation of the group of superimposed transparent cards of Fig. 7;

Fig. 9 represents a fragmentary view in vertical section taken through the center of-a group of transparent cards-somewhat similar to those of Figs. 5 and 6-which are' secured together for individual rotation about their center axes for ultimate determination of their proper positions in the completing of the incomplete representation.

Fig. 10 represents a top plan view of a playing board provided .with perforations for receiving portions of, and for holding in place, a plurality of playing pieces;

Fig. 11 represents a top plan view of an inscribed chart depicting an incomplete graphic representation and several individual elements necessary to complete the incomplete graphic representation;

Fig. 12 represents several Wire staples of various lengths serving as playing pieces in conjunction with the playing board of Fig. 10;

Fig. 13 represents a top plan view of the playing board of Fig. 10 to which have been applied playing pieces, of the type illustrated in Fig. 12, for forming the incomplete graphic representation depicted on the chart of Fig. 11, and to which,

.subsequently and selectively, have been applied `the several individual playing pieces, depicted on the said chart, for completing the incomplete graphic representation.

Fig. 14 represents a horizontal section taken on the line Il-Il of Fig. 13;

Fig. 15 represents a top plan View of a playing board equipped with devices for receiving and holding a plurality of playing tiles;

Fig. 16 represents a top plan view of an inscribed chart similar, in its essentials, to the chart of Fig. 1l with the exception that the several individual graphic elements are set forth by description rather than by illustration.

Fig. 17 represents, in top perspective, several differently marked tiles for use in conjunction with the playing board of Fig. 15;

Fig. 18 represents a vertical central section taken through any one of the tiles of Fig. 17 parallel with a side thereof.

Fig. 18a represents a bottom perspective view of the single tile illustrated inFig. 18.

Fig. 19 represents, in perspective, a number of variously marked tiles of Fig. 17 piled ready for 1156;'

Fig 20 represents a top plan view of the playing board of Fig. 15 to which several of the tiles of Fig. 19 have been applied for forming the incomplete graphic representation depicted in the chart ofFig. 16, and to which, subsequently and selectively, have been applied several additional tiles, according to the description set forth on the chart, for completing .the incomplete graphic representation;

Fig. 21 represents a vertical section taken on the line 2 I-2l, Fig. 20.

Fig. 22 represents a fragment of a chart similar to that illustrated in Fig. 17, but having inscribed thereon a different type of graphic element for forming the Incomplete representation:

vFig. 23 represents. in top perspective, several differently marked tiles for use in conjunction with a playing board and the chart of Fig. 22.

Fig. 24 represents a fragmentary view of the playing board, to which have been applied playing pieces of the type illustrated in Fig. 23, for forming the incomplete vgraphic representation depicted on the chart of Fig. 22, and to which subsequently and selectively have been applied the several individual .playing pieces described on the said chartfor completing the incomplete graphic representation. t

Fig. 25 represents a vertical section taken on the line 25-25, Fig. 24.

Fig. 26 represents a top plan view of a sheet picturing several incomplete human heads having dotted facial areas devoid of facial features and expression.

IFig. 27 represents a facial area corresponding to those of the incomplete human heads of Fig. 26 and having inscribed thereon all the possible lines that might be employed to connect the dots of the particular reference field illustrated in forming the facial features and various facial expressions f or the incomplete .human heads of Fig. 26.

Fig. 28 represents a fragment of the sheet of Fig. 26, to the respective dotted facial areas of which have been applied certain of the individual graphic elements or lines selected from those illustrated in Fig. 27, thus completing the human heads of Fig. 26 by adding facial features and various facial expressions thereto.

Fig. 29 represents a sheet inscribed with an incomplete human head, corresponding to those illustrated in Fig. 26, and with several graphic elements for selective addition to the facial area to provide facial features and a designated facial expression therefor.

Fig. 30 represents that fragment of the sheet of Fig. 29 which bears the incomplete human head, the view being taken after the selective addition of the several graphic elements thereto in a manner to form the facial features and produce the facial expression designated.

In Figs. 1 through 4 is illustrated a form of the invention which is particularly well suited for use in puzzle books, or for publication as a feature in newspapers, magazines, and the like. It embodies the generic idea of the invention, namely, the selective addition of several individual graphic elements possessing indicated characterthe word,.as actually completed byone solving istics, to an incomplete graphic representation for completing the vincomplete graphic representation, thereby creating a pictorial or other suitable graphic representation.

The representation of Fig. 1 may be a printed, or otherwise marked card, sheet, or space in a magazine, newspaper, or the like. It comprises a dotted reference iield, indicated generally at I0, upon and through certain of the dots of which are printed a group of lines, indicated generally at il, Fig. 1, which, collectively, form an incomplete graphic representation. Printed, or other wise marked, on the same dotted field are several individual graphic elements-see the groups of lines indicated generally l2a and I2b-predetermined in lengths to fit predetermined positions associated with the incomplete graphic representation il.

In the present instance, the lines of the incomplete graphic representation il are diagonal, while the lines of the several individual graphic elements are horizontal and vertical, those of group i2a being vertical and those of group i217 being horizontal. Also in the present instance, the dotted field is made up, throughout, of horizontal and vertical rectilinear dotted lines spaced equally to form a great number of small dotted square areas having corners in common-that is, generically, a symmetrically patterned eld.

The rectilinear dotted lines of the dotted field are preferably individually designated, providing a key for facilitating the application of the graphic elements of groups |2a and |2b to the incomplete graphic representation Il, or for enabling the directing of the solution of the puzzle. Horizontal rectilinear dotted lines are arbitrarily numbered from i to 26, and vertical rectilinear dotted lines are arbitrarily designated from A to Z.

In solving thev puzzle, the individual graphic elements of groups 12a and i212 are drawn at appropriate locations associated with the lines of the incomplete graphic representation Il. The drawing in of the individual graphic elements is a selective process. Thel person endeavoring to solve the puzzle and create the proper pictorial or other graphic representation may take a cue from the general outline of the incomplete graphic representation, and thus be guided in the process of selection, but, in all instances, l

there will be a certain amount of ttingand trying before final success. Measurement of length by dots, or spaces between dots, it should be noted, facilitates the fitting and trying.

As an additional aid to the solving of the puzzle, a word or words related to the subject matter of the completed pictorial or othergraphic representation may be spelled out upon the dots of the dotted field, at a location removed from the incomplete graphic representation, in letters which themselves, except for one or more in certain instances, are incompletely formed, see the letters indicated I3, Fig. 1. One or more of the letters, see IB, Fig. 1, may be completely formed to serve as a guide for the completion of the other letters, and, if appropriate, one or more blanks, see l5, Fig. l, may -be left for the formation of an entire letter. In the present instance, the incomplete letters and the blank need only the addition of diagonal lines, in proper placement, to complete the word. This may be done prior or subsequent to the completion of the incomplete graphic representation. i In Fig. 2 appears the incomplete graphic representation H, and the letters l3.and I4 of the puzzle. Lines of the groups |2a and I2b of individual graphic elements are indicated`both in the groups as printed, and-in their association with. the incomplete graphic representation il,

`as selectively applied by the numerals l2-lA through I2-l2.

If preferred, the incomplete graphic representation I l may be made up only of horizontal lines or only of vertical lines, or of a combination of both, or, even of a combination of horizontal, vertical, and diagonal lines. In such cases, the groups of individual graphic elements will comprise types of lines necessary to complete the incomplete graphic representation, regardless of whether those lines be' horizontal, vertical or diagonal.

The form of puzzle illustrated in Figs. l and 2 may be increased in dimculty of solution by form- If desired, the dots which formthe incomplete graphic representation i5 may be entirely disassociated from a dotted eld, see the incomplete graphic representation i6', Fig. 4. This adds further to the dilculty of solving the-puzzle, since there is no scale of measurement directly associated with the incomplete graphic representation or the individual graphic elements.

The above embodiments of the invention may advantageously be in the form of sewing cards to which thread or yarn is applied with a needle in the solving of the puzzle.

A very effective form of the invention is provided by a plurality of transparent cards of similar size and configuration, on one of which appears an incomplete graphic representation, and

onthe others of Whichappar, respectively, in-

dividual graphic elements for selective addition to the incomplete graphic representation of the iirst mentioned transparent'card. A

Illustrated in Fig. 5 is a card of transparent sheet material, such as relatively thick and stii cellulose acetate. Upon a surface ofthe card is printed, or otherwise marked,- a dotted iield 20, through and upon certain of the dots of which are printed or otherwise marked a. plurality of lines forming an incomplete graphic representation 2|. The-remaining transparent cards of the plurality of transparent .cards are illustrated in Fig. 6. Each has printed or otherwise marked thereon an individual line, see the lines 22 through 33, so placed with respect to i the periphery of its respective transparent card as to iit in proper relation with the incomplete graphic representation 2l and as to tend to complete the same when thecards are stacked, as shown in Fig. 8, so that their peripheriesregister, and so that the positions of the cards are such that the individual lines are properly related to one another and to the 'incomplete graphic representation. When thus properly stacked. the individual graphic elements 22 through 33 combine with one another and with the incomplete graphic representation 2| to form, transvisually, a complete pictorial or other graphic representation, as appears at 3l, Fig. 7.

plete graphic representation, for the periphery of the cards speciiically limits the number of possible placements. But it is very desirable that the diagonal lines, in such instances, be at an angle of 45 degrees to the vertical and horizontal lines.

In solving the puzzle, the square cards of Fig. 6 bearing the individual graphic elements 22 through 33, respectively, are individually rotated by quarter turns, as well as physically interchanged in position, one with another, to selectively effect proper placement of the individual graphic elements relative to the incomplete graphic representation 2|, of the transparent card of Fig. 5. It should be noted that,n by such quarter turn rotations, the horizontal lines become vertical, and vice versa, and the diagonal lines change in the directionY of slope. This adds a challenge to the solving of the puzzle, which isadditional to ythat offered by the formv of puzzle set forth in Figs. 1 through 4.

While the individual transparent cards of Fig. 6 are illustrated as bearing only one graphic element each, it is obvious that one or more or even all of the individual cards may bear a plurality of graphic elements.

As illustrated in Fig. 9, transparent cards 45, of circular or other symmetrical configuration and corresponding to those illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6, or to other somewhat similar types, may be secured to one another in superimposed positions by a central pivot 46 which affords free rotation of the individual transparent cards relative toone another. In this case the feature of interchange in position of the transparent cards with one another is eliminated from the procedure of solving the puzzle.

While the illustrations portray specic forms of graphic representations obviously many diierent forms and types may advantageously be made use of.

As an example, a set of transparent cards, preferably rectangular in-conguration similar to ordinary playing cards, may be marked with numbers or letters, singly placed or grouped on respective cards, as found desirable, for providing a deck of cards resembling an ordinary deck of playing cards. Card games, having the forming of certain groupings of letters or numbers by the individual players as their objects, may be played by dealing out several of the transparent cards to the individual players, `and by the drawing of additional cards from the deck, or by the passing of discards from player t player, or by some othermethod ofplay usual in card games.

Transparent cards, marked in the manner of those illustrated in Figs. and 6, may also be provided in duplicate, triplicate, etc., to form decks of playing cards, similar to those just described, and for the same purpose, namely, the providing of novel card games for group play.

Within` the purview of the present invention are various forms of puzzle game structures primarily adapted for amusing an individual player, but useful also for group play. Such game structures comprise a game board, playing pieces for selective application to said game board, and a chart or charts depicting an incomplete graphic representation and the several individual elements, i. e. playing pieces, necessary for completing the incomplete graphic representation.

A desirable form of puzzle game structure pursuant to the invention is set forth in Figs. 10 through 14. A game board 50, see particularly Fig. 10, is provided with a plurality of relatively small perforations 5| which collectively form a dotted reference field 52 corresponding to the dotted field l0 of the printed sheet of Fig. 1. Accompanying the game board is a chart 53, see Fig. 11, bearing a printed dotted iield corresponding to the dotted field 52 and having marked thereon an incomplete graphic representation 54 and the two groups 55a and 55h of individual graphic elements for selective addition to the incomplete graphic representation to complete the same. It is desirable, especially for group play. that several charts be provided with a single game board, each chart related to the same subject or to other subjects.

Each chart serves as a guide for the player using the game'board. A collection of playing pieces, such as the staples illustrated in Fig. 13 and individually designated 56, are supplied with a game board and the one or more charts. The staples are of various lengths depending upon the lengths of the individual graphic elements of groups 55a and 55h and of the incomplete representation 54.

In solving the puzzle, the player applies several of the playing pieces 56` to the game board 50 following exactly the pattern of the incomplete graphic representation 54 by selecting playing pieces 56 of such lengths as are required. He then selects several additional playing pieces 56 of number and lengths corresponding to the individual graphic elements of groups 55a and 55h of the chart, and, from this selected group, selectively applies the individual playing pieces to the game board 50 to complete the incomplete graphic representation 54. l

The incomplete graphic representation 54, as formed and completed on the game board 50 by the application of the staple playing pieces 56 thereto, is indicated 51, Fig. 12. As illustrated in Fig. 14, the legs of the staples 56 are inserted into individual perforations 5| of the game board. The individual perforations 5| are advantageously made large enough to accommodate a plurality of the staple legs, and the backs of the staples are equal to a length or multiples of a length -between adjacent perforations taken either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Those staples which form a diagonal length, or a multiple of a diagonal length, may be identied in the collection of staples supplied, by providing them with longer legs, with diierent color marking, or with any other suitable means of. identification.

While the playing pieces 56 are specifically illustrated as staples, and the receiving'means of the same board 50 as perforations for receiving the legs of the staples, it is contemplated,that other suitable structural means may be employed.

Illustrated in Figs; 15 through 21 is another form of puzzle game structure. 'I'he game board 50 comprises a base block Ell-I, see especially Fig. 26, which has'marked on the playing surface thereof, see particularly Fig. 15, horizontal and vertical rectilinear lines 6I which form a eld 62 corresponding to the perforate dotted field 52 vof Fig. 10. Provided centrally'of each of the squares formed by the intersecting rectilinear lines 8l in the base block Bil-I are posts 63 for receiving and holding tile playing pieces, hereinafter defscribed. The posts 63 are advantageously round and frictionally fitted in receiving holes drilled iny the base block Sil-I Accompanying the game board 60 is a chart 6I, Fig. 16, which corresponds to the chart of Fig. 11. It carries a field identical with the eld 62 of the game board 60, and has marked thereon an in- 'complete graphic'representation $5-, and preferably, instructions-see SG-as to the number and type of tile playing pieces required to provide the individual graphic elements needed-to complete the incomplete graphic representation 65.

Accompanying the game board 60 and the chart 64 is a collection, see Fig. 19, of tiles-21 formed according to the representative tiles. SI-I, 61-2; 67-3; 61-4, '6l-L5, Sla-5, and 51--1 of Fig. 17. Each of the tiles G'I-l through 61--1 is sq'uare and has provided at the center of its underside, a cylindrical recess corresponding to that indicated 68, Fig. 18. Accordingly, each tile adapted for placement over the upvstanding end of one of the posts 63 on the game board 60. -Each of the tiles 61-2 through 6l-1, has marked on its upper surface a heavy line, or heavy lines, so placed as to be capable of providing one or more of the individual graphic elements of the incomplete graphic representation 65 and of those needed to complete the incomplete graphic representation 65. 'The tile lil-I is blank for providing background. The tiles 61-9 through 61-1 are individually identifiable by respective markings. Here, arbitrary markings A through G, respectively, are placed on the undersurface of the respective. tiles, see Fig. 18a. In solving the puzzle, several appropriately marked tiles are selected from the collection shown in Fig. 19, and are placed on the game board 60 with the aid of the marginal key 64a and 64b to reproduce the incomplete representation 65 of the chart 64. Thereafter, other appropriately marked tiles are selected. from ,the collection, according to the instructions 56, and these tiles are selectively positioned in association with the previously placed tiles on the game board S to form the complete graphic representation 69, Fig. 20. Blank tiles corresponding to the tiles G'I-I are applied to the game board 60 to complete the background for the complete graphic representation 69. It may be preferred to mark tiles as indicated in Fig. 23, see tiles IiI--I through 'I0-3 there illustrated. In this case, the chart 1I, Fig. 22 is marked correspondingly, to form the incomplete graphic representation '|2.- The game board 13,

Figs. 24 and 25, may be structurally similar, to

the game board of Fig. 15 and the individual tiles of Fig. 23 .may be similar in formation to those of Fig. 18. In solving the puzzle, the complete graphic representation '14, Fig. 24, is formed by selectively positioning that number and type of tiles, illustrated in Fig. 23, which are specified by the instructions 15 of the chart 1 I, in association with-those tiles which have previously been positioned on the game board 13 to form the incomplete representation 72, A

In the instances where tiles are employed as playing pieces, the game board may be entirely Another-form of the invention is illustrated in. Figs. 26, 27 and 28. As illustrated in Fig. 26, a

pluralityl of incomplete graphic representations 'I0 are inscribed on suitable sheet material, the

incomplete graphic representations 'l0 being of human heads, in outline, devoid of facial features and expressions. The facial area of each head may be marked on in the form of a' dotted reference eld, the dots forming relatively small squares. Illustrated in Fig. 281s a chart representation of the reference elds of the incomplete heads 10 as marked with all the possible lines which could be drawn to connect the several dots in each of the elds thereof. Such completely filled in reference :deld is indicated "i2, and may be, inscribed on the same sheet as are the incomplete faces l0, or at a location in proximity thereto, to furnish a guide to the completion of the incomplete heads.

In solving this form of puzzle, individual connecting lines of the completely filled in chart 12,-'are selectively marked on the reference fields il to complete the facial features and expressions thereof. As illustrated in Fig. 28, the completed faces I3 may present a variety of com-4 illustrated a sheet inscribed with an incomplete representation 8l of a human head similar to those of Fig. 26 and inscribed also with a dotted field on which are marked several individual.

graphic elements, designated generally 82. In solving the puzzle, the individual graphic `elements 62 are selectively added to the incomplete representation 8| to form a facial expression corresponding to the title.83, which may be inscribed above such incomplete representation. The complete facial expression is illustrated vin Fig. 30, being indicated 84. While a human head is here selected for the purpose of illustration,

obviously thevhead of any animal may be employed for the purpose.

As variations on the immedaitely above ldescribed form of the puzzle, the title of any object, such as a house, an animal, a tree, etc., may replace the title 83, and the group of individual graphic elements 82 maybe composed of those graphic elements which are, in number and coniigurations, adapted to form', when properly placed in relation to one another, a picture of the title object.

-In all embodiments of the invention, a printed,

or otherwise delineated, complete graphic representation may, where appropriate, accompany scribed with respect to specic forms thereof, I

it is to be distinctly understood that many changes may be made without departing from the generic spiritand scope explained herein and set forth in the following claims,

I claim:

l. Apuzzle comprising an incomplete graphic representation overlying a reference field marked oi to indicate relatively small square areas, said incomplete graphic representation being composed of substantially rectilinear lines forming diagonals of certain of said square areas; and several individual groups of individual markings which are all component to the complete graphic representation, of which the said incomplete graphic representation forms a part, and which represents what might be selectively added to the said incomplete graphic representation to form the said complete graphic representation, said individual markings being substantially rectilinear lines, some being horizontal and some being vertical relative to those or the said incomplete graphic representation.

2. A game comprising a surface bearing a rei'- erence field marked off in relatively small divisions and bearing a plurality of rectilinear lines mark'ed oil on said surface with regard to the divisions of said reference eld and depicting a par-- tial graphic representation, and several rectili? near lines marked off on said surface at a location removed from the said partial graphic representation, said several lines having definite lengths in terms of spaces between the divisions of said reference field, whereby the said several lines may be used as a direction for completing the said partial graphic representation by the player of the game.

3. A puzzle comprising several markings grouped together in a predetermined arrangement which is component to an ultimate pattern, said markings overlying a reference eld which is symmetrically divided throughout its entire area to indicate comparatively small, mutually similar, geometrical areas, each of which has boundary parts in common with boundary parts of others thereof, the said markings comprehending common boundary parts of said geometrical areas; and several additional markings disassociated and disconnected from the rst named several markings and having no connected arrangement relative to one another, but all having characterstics which are definitely related to the said geometrical areas and which adapt them, dimensionally, for fitting into the arrangement of the rfirst named several markings in the selective filling out of the said arrangement into a particular ultimate pattern.

4. A puzzle comprising several markings grouped together in a ypredetermined arrangement which is component to an ultimate pattern, said markings overlying a reference field which is divided throughout lits entire area to indicate comparatively small, mutually similar, square areas, each of which have corner points in common with corner points of others, the said markings comprehending common corner points of said square areas and bearing definite relationships to said square areas and several additional markings disassociated and disconnected from the first named several markings and having no connected arrangement relative to one another, but vall having characteristics which are denitely related to said square' areas and which will fit into the arrangement of the rst named several markings in the selective lling out of the said arrangement into a particular ultimate pattern.

5. A puzzle comprising several markings which are made up of substantially rectilinear lines and are grouped together in a predetermined arrangement, Vsaid markings overlying a reference field which is marked throughout its entire area to indicate comparatively small; mutually similar, square areas, each of which has corner points in common with corner points of others, the said markings passing through corner points of said square areas; and several additional markings comprising substantially rectilinear lines having lengths which are each equal to or multiples of a distance between two corner points of a square area, said additional markings being disassociated from the first named several markings but all having respective lengths which will fit into the arrangement of the said first named several markings in the selective filling out of the said arrangement into a particular pattern.

6. A puzzle as recited in claim 5 wherein there are substantially rectilinear lines marked on'said reference eld at a location spaced apart from said incomplete graphic representation and forming an incomplete title for the completed graphic representation, said incomplete title being adapted for completion by adding a plurality of substantially rectilinear lines thereto.

MARSHALL I. WILLIAMSON. 

